When a student’s family is unable to afford the resources their child needs to succeed in school, we step in to fill the gap.
Many students at the Fianarantsoa School for the Deaf (SEMAFI) come from families with limited financial means. Some can hardly afford the transportation costs of bringing their child to school, let alone pay for the healthcare, school supplies, and clothes their child needs.
Our Student Support Fund exists to ensure that all students have the resources they need to focus on their studies. Often, it assists students who are waiting to be matched with a sponsor. We work with students, parents, and school staff to determine students’ individual needs and identify solutions. Ultimately, our goal is to improve student attendance, learning outcomes, and self esteem.
Our Work
Provide essential school supplies, including uniforms, backpacks, notebooks, and pens
Cover breakfast and lunch costs for day students whose families struggle to provide regular meals
Purchase shoes, clothes, bed linens, and blankets for students
Fund improvements which directly impact the day-to-day lives of students, such as purchasing new furniture for the dormitories
Provide tutoring for students who need extra support in math, reading, writing, and/or sign language
Support transportation costs of boarding students
Arrange eye exams and purchase prescription glasses for students with low vision
Facilitate hearing tests for students with residual hearing to identify those eligible for hearing aids and cover their travel expenses to VivaSon’s annual charity distribution event in Antsirabe
Students gather around a park guide to learn more about Anja Community Reserve during a field trip in 2025.
